Paul George’s Contract Viewed as One of the NBA’s Toughest
Analysts have highlighted the financial terms attached to George’s deal. In a ranking of the league’s most burdensome contracts, his four-year agreement, signed in 2024, was placed among the top three. Only Joel Embiid’s contract with the 76ers and Trae Young’s new max deal with the Wizards ranked higher in terms of value versus production.
Under the current deal, George has two years remaining with a total of more than $110 million on the books. The final year features a player option at $56 million, which appears likely to be exercised given the structure and incentives of the contract.
Availability has been a concern for George recently. While he remains a productive contributor when on the floor, the combination of high cost and fluctuating availability has drawn questions about the contract’s overall value.
Observers note that players entering their late 30s typically don’t show marked improvement or increased availability, and George has missed a significant portion of games over the last two seasons. In two seasons, he missed a combined 86 games and has logged only a single season with 70 appearances (or the equivalent of a shortened schedule) since 2018-19.
Critics also pointed to how George finished the previous season. After a prolonged absence due to injury, his late-season performance did not significantly shift the outlook, and the 76ers’ playoff run ended earlier than hoped.
This assessment will continue to be refined as the season progresses and George’s health and on-court impact are re-evaluated within the broader context of the Celtics’ and 76ers’ rosters and championship aspirations.
